Belem Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the Portuguese capital Lisbon. Its official name is Tower of St. Vincent and is part of the Jeronimos Monastery complex. Together with the monastery it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its importance during the age of discoveries.
The tower was commissioned by eh Portuguese King John II in the 15th century as a defense structure on the mouth of the river Tagus. Moreover, it was supposed to act as a ceremonial entrance for the city of Car Hire Lisbon. The tower was designed to complement the Fortress of Cascais that is located on the other bank of the river. The constriction started during the reign of John II and was finished during the time of his successor Manuel I.
The building process was led by the military engineer Francisco de Arruda between 1515-1521. It is the prominent Portuguese Manueline style with some influences of other styles. The main material used was limestone. The construction consists of a bastion and a 30 meter tower that has four stories. Initially, the tower was built on a small island. In 1755 there was a significant earthquake that changed the course of the Tagus River and now the Belem Tower is at the shore.
The tower was decorated by Diogo de Boitaca who also created the design of the Jeronimos Monastery. The tower was dedicated to St. Vincent and commemorates the achievement of Vasco de Gama.
The tower stopped being used as a defense structure in the end of the 16th century. Later, it was used for political prison and customs house for incoming ships. The Belem Tower was renovated in the 19th century when some of the present ornaments were added. The tower was proclaimed a national symbol in 1907 and a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1983.
Car rental companies that operate in the vicinity of the city of Lisbon are Avis, Budget, Expedia, Holiday Autos, Opodo, Net Flights, and Car hire 3000.

Car Rentals